Chiesa had little trouble working his striking against Trinaldo, while also going for several submissions. In the third round alone, he out-struck Trinaldo 38-8 and 14-5 in terms of significant strikes. Over the course of the 15-minute battle, Chiesa landed 139 strikes at 63-percent, while Trinaldo hit just 19 total.

Despite the big advantage on the feet, Trinaldo did give Chiesa cause for concern on a number of instances.

“This was my toughest fight so far,” Chiesa said. “He got me with a couple big shots. Trinaldo is a seasoned veteran and these Brazilians are no joke.”

Trinaldo (14-4) suffered his third UFC defeat, falling to 4-3 inside the Octagon. He had earned a split decision over Jesse Ronson earlier this year in Brazil.